Tag Archives: Epcot

May 30 2015

Epcot Eat To The Beat Concert Series Bands Announced

Eat To The Beat Concert Series Returns To Epcot!

If you plan to visit Disney World this fall for the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, here is some exciting news! Disney has just released the information about which bands will be appearing in the Epcot Eat To The Beat Concert Series that runs from September 25 – November 16, 2015. Here’s the current lineup (subject to change without notice):

  • David Cook – September 25 – 27, 2015
  • Wilson Phillips – September 28 – 29, 2015
  • Christopher Cross – September 30 – October 1, 2015
  • Starship – October 2 – 4, 2015
  • Smash Mouth – October 5 – 7, 2015
  • The Pointer Sisters – October 8 – 9, 2015
  • 38 Special – October 10 – 11, 2015
  • Rick Springfield – October 12 – 13, 2015
  • Sugar Ray – October 14 – 16, 2015
  • The S.O.S. Band – October 17 – 18, 2015
  • Air Supply – October 19 – 21, 2015
  • Fuel – October 22 – 23, 2015
  • Tiffany – October 24 – 25, 2015
  • Dennis DeYoung – October 26 – 28, 2015
  • Jo Dee Messina – October 29 – 30, 2015
  • Everclear – October 31 – November 1, 2015
  • Boyz II Men – November 2 – 4, 2015
  • Sister Hazel – November 5 – 6, 2015
  • Big Bad Voodoo Daddy – November 7 – 9, 2015
  • Hanson – November 10 – 12, 2015
  • Maxi Priest – November 13 – 14, 2015
  • Chaka Khan – November 15 – 16, 2015

Performances will be at the America Gardens Theatre at 5:30pm, 6:45pm and 8:00pm daily and are included with Epcot admission.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

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Have you attended an Eat To The Beat Concert? Are you going this year?
Who are you most excited to see? Please leave a comment!

May 28 2015

2015 Epcot International Food And Wine Festival First Details Released

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival ©Disney

Back in January, Disney announced the dates for this year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, but since that time there hasn’t really been any news to report. Until now! Disney has just released the first details of its plans for the 20th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and it looks like it is going to be another fabulous event. Here’s the scoop from Disney:

Milestone Celebration Queues Up New Tastings and Events

A global culinary journey celebrating 20 delicious years of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will tantalize taste buds from September 25 – November 16, at Walt Disney World Resort. The 2015 festival, presented by Chase, will welcome celebrity chefs, debut new marketplace tastes from around the world and celebrate guests’ favorite dining traditions.

Disney chefs and festival programmers are whipping up a feast of surprises to celebrate the 20th annual event in style. New wine tastings, rockin’ parties and culinary experiences built around the 20-year milestone will bring together loyal festival fans and first-timers. As part of the celebration, Chef Remy of the Disney animated film “Ratatouille” will invite guests to join a culinary scavenger hunt.

Growing in scope each year since 1996 and lauded by the Travel Channel as one of America’s top food festivals, the 53-day Epcot event features inspired bites and sips from around the world at more than 25 outdoor marketplaces, nightly Eat to the Beat concerts of many musical genres, signature dinners and featured tasting events.

This fall, the 20th festival will debut dishes like Pepper Bacon Mac ‘n Cheese at the Farm Fresh Marketplace and refreshing sips like the Scottish Citrus Thistle at the Scotland Marketplace. Culinary icons like Cat Cora, Jamie Deen and John Ash will entertain foodies and inspire their palates at new and returning premium events that include weekly Party for the Senses grand tastings in October.

Festival guests can pair wines and beers with savory and sweet dishes as they stroll the World Showcase Promenade and earn stamps on their complimentary festival passports. Champagne, cocktails and “mocktails” also will bubble up on festival menus. In Future World, the popular Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog returns for a fourth year so that families can discover the cranberry’s rich agricultural heritage and learn fun facts about the tart fruits.

Whether guests’ taste buds prefer savory, spicy, sweet (or all of the above), there are plenty of delectable surprises at every stop along the way. Here’s a sneak peek:

New marketplace menus debut and chefs celebrate festival favorites – Among many dishes set to debut are Seared Venison Loin with Wild Mushroom Ragout and Kumara Dumpling at the New Zealand Marketplace and Grilled Sweet and Spicy Bush Berry Shrimp with Pineapple, Peppers, Onions and Snap Peas at the Australia Marketplace. For many, there’s nothing like a yearly dip into classic favorites like the Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup.

Four new Eat to the Beat concert acts debut; fan favorites return to festival stage – Rock singer-songwriter David Cook opens the Eat to the Beat concert series September 25 – 27. Four new acts in the concert series lineup — Tiffany, Everclear, Maxi Priest and Chaka Khan – will belt out chart-topping tunes. Other popular acts, including Wilson Phillips, Smash Mouth, The Pointer Sisters, Jo Dee Messina, Boyz II Men and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, will return to rock the America Gardens Theatre stage this fall.

Celebrity chefs dazzle – Renowned chef and cookbook author John Ash, who participated in the inaugural Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in 1996, will return to celebrate the 20th milestone year. Other notable chefs including Cat Cora, Robert Irvine, Jamie Deen, Rock Harper, Kenny Gilbert and Buddy Valastro will cook for Epcot guests and share their culinary know-how during demos and premium events.

Ratatouille rocks — Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak invites kids of all ages to join a World Showcase scavenger hunt for little Remy statuettes hidden around the park’s World Showcase. Maps, stickers and prizes are involved.

Festival Center gets cookin’ – Guests can join culinary demonstrations, beverage seminars and mixology seminars daily for a nominal fee. More festival fun will include the complimentary Back to Basics weekend series featuring epicurean tips and tricks from the pros.

Chase Lounge offers perks – Anyone who owns or wants to own a Chase debit or credit card will find complimentary refreshments and interactive fun at the Chase Lounge at American Adventure.

Get ready for . . .

  • More than 270 chefs including Disney chefs and culinary stars from across the country.
  • Party for the Senses grand tasting events every Saturday in October showcasing tempting bites from eminent chefs, more than 50 wines and beers and live entertainment.
  • Premium events including the new “French Family Meal Traditions” lunch on Fridays and Sundays; new “Rockin’ Burger Block Party” on select dates; and new beverage events to include “Exploring Wines from 1996 to Now” that salutes the festival’s 20th year.

Included with Epcot Admission: Back to Basics series, Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog, World Showcase Scavenger Hunt, special book signings, Eat to the Beat concerts, cultural adventures, Marketplace Discovery Passport and all attractions and park entertainment are included with regular Epcot admission.

Special Programming by Reservation: The Party for the Senses grand tasting events, signature dinners and other special wine and culinary programs require reservations and separate event admission. When a reservation booking date is announced this summer, guests can call 407-WDW-FEST and get details at EpcotFoodFestival.com.

This year I am very lucky to be planning a visit to Disney World during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Although I am an extremely picky eater, I always seem to find lots of tasty dishes to try and I’m hoping to do the same this fall. If you get the opportunity to visit during the festival, I highly recommend it. It is tons of fun for the whole family!

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Will you be attending the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival?
What is your favorite part? Please leave a comment!

May 12 2015

New Epcot Entertainment – American Music Machine

American Adventure

If you are going to be heading to Epcot soon, be sure to check out the new entertainment that Disney has added to the America Pavilion at World Showcase. Here’s the scoop from Disney Parks Blog:

American Music MachineA five-member, contemporary a cappella group has made its debut at the America Gardens Theatre. American Music Machine brings a vibrant musical energy to the stage, with performances that convey the global influence of American popular music. The group’s repertoire includes a diverse range of contemporary and classic American pop hits, all presented in a unique style created by ground-breaking vocal arranger Tim Davis, whose previous credits include the hit TV series “Glee.”

American Music Machine will be performing at the America Gardens Theatre, Wednesday through Sunday each week, if you want to check them out.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

What about you? Have you seen American Music Machine yet?
What did you think? Please leave a comment!

Apr 19 2015

Epcot Sounds Like Summer Concert Series Bands Announced

Epcot

Sounds Like Summer Concert Series Returns To Epcot!

If you plan to visit Disney World this summer, here is some exciting news! Disney has just released the information about which bands will be appearing in the Epcot Sounds Like Summer Concert Series that runs from June 7 – July 25, 2015. Here’s the current lineup (subject to change without notice):

  • June 7 – 13: DSB – A Tribute to Journey
  • June 14 – 20: 2U – A Tribute to U2
  • June 21 – 26: Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot – A Tribute Billy Joel Show
  • June 27 – July 4: Don’t Look Back – A Tribute to Boston
  • July 5 – 11: Fire & Ice – A Tribute to Pat Benatar
  • July 12 – 18: Stayin’ Alive – A Tribute to the Bee Gees
  • July 19 – 25: Hotel California – A Salute to the Eagles

Performances will be at the America Gardens Theatre at 5:30pm, 6:45pm and 8:00pm daily and are included with Epcot admission.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Have you attended a Sounds Like Summer Concert? Are you going this year?
Who are you most excited to see? Please leave a comment!

Apr 15 2015

Traveling Solo To Disney World

Last month I had the opportunity to travel to Disney World by myself for a few days to check out the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival and to do a little research for another book that I have coming out later this year. Although I have been visiting Disney World my entire life, I had never taken a vacation there on my own. Traveling alone had a completely different feel than what I am used to when at the resort. I had no one else to consider and I could do anything that I wanted whenever I wanted. Even though the freedom was nice, I really missed my hubby and boys. I wish I had seen this helpful list courtesy of WDW News before my trip. Hope it helps out some of you other solo travelers!

If visiting Walt Disney World Resort solo never crossed your mind, think again. There are myriad ways to enjoy Disney’s world-class theme parks, resorts and more all by yourself.

Ride your favorite attraction more than once, shop till you drop, indulge in over-the-top treats, learn something new and make friends along the way.

Here are 25 ways you can discover another side of the magic on your own:

Epcot

  1. Shopping. For all its great attractions, one reason for many to hit Epcot World Showcase is to shop. Spend an afternoon at your own pace browsing and buying. Pop into boutiques stocked with French perfumes (France pavilion), silk kimonos (Japan pavilion) and artisan crafts (Mexico pavilion). Solo shoppers have eight other countries brimming with authentic merchandise to explore.
  2. Interactive Attractions. Many of Walt Disney World’s attractions are designed for interactive fun, so you won’t be a single rider in a space configured for two. Play interactive games along with others as you work your way through the waiting area to board Soarin’, a hang-gliding simulator experience over California, where the seating accommodates multiple riders.
  3. Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. Here’s an opportunity for those with a penchant for gardening to join others and hear horticulturists share their tips. Seminars are held throughout this spring festival, and speakers and topics change so you can pick and choose.
  4. Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Seminars, cooking demonstrations and wine tastings held throughout the park offer guests a chance to watch, listen and learn together, and since you’re seated next to others with the same interest, it’s easy to strike up a conversation. It’s an annual rite of fall at Walt Disney World Resort.
  5. Food and Drink. There’s always room at the bar! So grab a beer and a bite at the Rose & Crown Pub in the United Kingdom pavilion. Known for drawing a rousing crowd, the pub is the place to make new friends and sing along with the piano player. If a tequila cocktail is more your thing, the La Cava del Tequila in the Mexico pavilion welcomes you— with a fine collection of tequilas, plus house-made guacamole.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

  1. Live Entertainment. Big spacious theaters at Disney’s Hollywood Studios make catching a show effortless. Choose from Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage; “Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show” and the “Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!”
  2. Play cartoonist and draw up some fun. Take a drawing lesson with the pros at the Magic of Disney Animation. In a room tucked away from the crowd, artists teach you how to draw your favorite Disney character. Paper and pencils are provided, and you’ll walk away with artwork for your wall.
  3. Daring Rides. If your past traveling mates were too chicken to ride two of Walt Disney World Resorts’ most thrilling attractions, now’s your chance to let loose alone on the “Twilight Zone Tower of Terror” and the “Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith.”
  4. Sugar Fix. Indulge without feeling guilty and hit the sweet shop on Sunset Boulevard for those chocolate-covered Mickey pretzels, huge caramel apples with the works and other sugar-coated delights.
  5. Be a History Buff. Hop aboard the Great Movie Ride to track Hollywood’s past through audio-animatronics, narration and film. Twentieth-century films from Tarzan the Ape Man and Casablanca to Alien and Raiders of the Lost Ark tell the history of the silver screen. Then poke into the attraction Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream. Artifacts, from early animation storyboards to Mickey Mouse Club props, and a film featuring an interview with Walt bring the legacy of the man behind the magic to life.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

  1. Architecture Buff. As you meander the park’s pathways, look up to check out the Asian- and African-inspired architecture of the buildings, where both authentic and whimsy are on display. Rustic temples with hammered copper detail resemble those found in the Himalayas while colorful folk-art carvings of lizards decorate rooftops.
  2. Animal Sightings. Waiting for Mother Nature’s creatures to run, jump, play and eat sometimes requires patience. On your own, you can spend more than a few minutes observing the animals (population about 1,500). Start on the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail where a self-guided tour on foot provides the lowdown on the animals; highlights include picnicking gorillas and swimming hippos.
  3. Broadway Style. Festival of the Lion King brings a bit of Broadway to Walt Disney World Resort. With so much eye-popping pageantry, music, dance and puppetry—innovative portrayals of Mufasa, Simba and other characters—to entertain you, who needs company? Another spectacular production you can enjoy on your own is Finding Nemo – The Musical.
  4. Off the Beaten Path. Make new friends when you join a small intimate group on the Wild Africa Trek. With this premium add-on to a day at the park, a guide takes trekkers deep into the heart of the Africa section of the park for close-up visits with hippos, harnessed walks across swaying rope bridges with crocodiles looming below and Africa-inspired edibles overlooking the savanna.
  5. For the Curious. A visit to the Conservation Station is a chance to learn what it takes to keep the animals happy and healthy, from hands-on veterinary care to nutrition as well as conservation efforts. Spend as long as you want here observing the professionals at work; experts provide answers and educate folks on how the animals in the park—and worldwide—are protected.

Magic Kingdom

  1. Flashback! With a young-at-heart attitude, this is the place to relive childhood memories beginning with some of the longest-running attractions such as Pirates of the Caribbean and the Jungle Cruise.
  2. Secret Stops. On your own time you can poke into spots off the beaten path of Main Street, U.S.A., including Harmony Barber Shop and The Chapeau, where you can get your name embroidered on a pair of ears inspired by you-know-who.
  3. The Performers. Strolling the park you’ll come upon song and dance. Look for the Dapper Dans performing throwback tunes on Main Street, U.S.A. On the Castle forecourt stage, watch a full musical production with elaborate costumes, music, special effects and Disney characters from princesses and pirates to Mickey Mouse
  4. Sightsee. Two relaxing, fun ways to see Magic Kingdom is (1) to take the complete looping excursion on Walt Disney World Railroad’s vintage steam train to get the lay of the land, and (2) board the elevated Tomorrowland Transit Authority People Mover for views from above the crowd.
  5. Innovations. Trace the technological advances at the Magic Kingdom beginning with The Hall of Presidents where longtime audio-animatronic figures updated for the 21st century create lifelike portrayals of the country’s 43 leaders. Then don a pair of “opera glasses” at Mickey’s PhilharMagic and be dazzled by the latest 3D effects played out on a huge wraparound screen as special effects tease the senses—plus music from the film Fantasia and more recent Disney hits.

Beyond the Parks

  1. Spa-aaaaaah. After the theme parks, find R&R at one of the Senses spas. At the Saratoga Spring Resort & Spa, the choice signature treatment is the bamboo fusion massage, and at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the duo aromatherapy massage and body wrap is sheer bliss.
  2. Hone Your Golf Game. Taking a lesson with a PGA or LPGA pro at Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course is a great way to step up your game, or if you’d rather just work on your swing, grab a bucket of balls and hit the driving range at Disney’s Palm Golf Course. If the urge to play a round is too strong to resist, the staff will happily pair you with available golfers.
  3. A Fresh-Air Stroll. Soak up the scene at Disney’s BoardWalk. Reminiscent of 1940s ocean-side entertainment, the wide waterfront promenade is designed for old-school fun with arcade games and vendors. Enjoy a margarita from Joe’s Marvelous Margaritas at an alfresco table or check out the home-brewed beers from a seat at the bar inside the Big River Grille & Brewing Works. Sing along with other guests at Jellyrolls piano bar or pop into the ESPN Club to join sports enthusiasts for the latest games.
  4. Dream Car. It’s just you and your Lamborghini — or Ferrari or Porsche. Take your pick and then hop in one of these outrageously stylish and expensive cars with price tags in the six figures and go for a spin. At the Walt Disney World Speedway’s Exotic Driving Experience, it’s all about getting behind the wheel of the ultimate vehicle. A professional instructor sitting shotgun teaches you how to use the paddle shift as you hug the track’s curves and straightaway.
  5. Show and Shop. Chances of finding the best seat in the house increase a hundredfold when you only need one ticket. Hit the theater in Downtown Disney for Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba show and be mesmerized by the amazing acrobats and high-wire acts, surreal music and costumes that push the creative limits of the artists. Then browse the nearby shops for the ultimate Disney souvenir, from framed limited-edition prints of your favorite character to jewelry tastefully designed with – what else? – iconic Mouse ears.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Have you ever traveled solo to Disney World? What was your experience?
Please leave a comment!